The boss: Amie Benton is 25 years old and has been running her own personal trainer business for the past four years. She started martial arts at the age of seven and obtained a black belt in karate at the age of 16.

She said: “I still enjoy my martial arts training, along with passing my knowledge of karate on to children and furthering my training in mixed martial arts, kickboxing. I’m a fully qualified and insured instructor and affiliated with the United Kingdom All Styles Martial Arts Federation.”

What is your business about? “Teaching children of all ages and abilities the art and background of karate, which in turn will increase fitness, stamina, strength, co-ordination and balance. The club is designed to give children a positive attitude towards life through self-discipline, gaining self-confidence and respect for themselves and those around them. It improves their focus and concentration for better work and study habits and most importantly to make new friends, meet new people and have fun.”

What product/services do you offer? “Classes are run three times a week in a fully air-conditioned dojo (training place). Classes run on Monday and Friday (4.30pm to 5.30pm) and Wednesdays (4pm to 5pm).

How and when did you start your business? “The club has been up and running for the past 18 months. This came about due to my personal training clients and members of the gym asking for a karate class to be run for children within the gym so parents could work-out at the same time. Also people wanted a local venue and a club that was run straight after school hours.”

How many staff do you employ? “There is currently myself and one other instructor, with future plans to expand and open another karate school in Hook, Hampshire.”

Who are your customers? “Boys and girls of all ages and abilities with a keen interest in karate. Some children join the club as a result of bullying at school to gain more confidence and learn self-defence. Whereas some come for a free trial because they think they are a Power Ranger. They soon learn, when they are using the correct technique, they are not a Power Ranger but maybe the next Karate Kid.”

What sets you apart from the competition? “The club is a small, friendly and local club with great opportunities for children to progress. There are excellent offers available on memberships to get children started along with in-house gradings, merit badges, competitions and much more.”

How has the recession affected business? “The club hasn’t been affected by the recession. The price of being a member at the club is affordable and competitive. Learning self-defence is very important in today’s society and may save your or your child’s life. This is the reason we have not been affected. Why deprive children of something that will help them in life, something they may be good at and most importantly enjoy?”

How do you feel about the future? “Excited, I have great plans for the future including opening up another karate school in Hook very soon along with starting up classes for adults.”